Erin Ryan

Latest posts by Erin Ryan

Best Escape Rooms Near Philly: Kid-Friendly Fun for Parties and More

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Sun, 02/13/2022 - 10:49am

Try to crack the code at Escape the Room Philly. Photo courtesy of Escape the Room Philly

Need a cool activity that combines teamwork, family bonding, and problem-solving skills all in one? A Philly escape room can tick off every box on your list. For a fun and rewarding challenge that channels your inner Sherlock Holmes, these escape rooms near Philadelphia make the perfect outing for a kids’ birthday party or indoor activity.

Many of Philly’s escape rooms have rotating themes, so we recommend checking the websites before arrival to see what’s being offered at any given time. Most escape rooms cater to older children, so if you're bringing little ones, be prepared to help them out. For more great places to have a blast inside, browse our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces and Fun Zones for Philly Kids.

Easy Spring Break Vacations for Philly Families

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Fri, 03/12/2021 - 10:50am

Walk like an Egyptian at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh. Photo courtesy of the center

Spring break comes but once a year. Although it seems the annual respite has gotten shorter since my time in school, the days off are still a welcome period to relax and enjoy family time. Where should you turn if you want to enjoy a weekend away? Day events are always an option, but how about squeezing in a little vacation time?

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has compiled a list of places close enough for an easy spring break getaway. For more ideas, be sure and check out our event calendar for fun activities throughout the Philly area and Travel Guide for far-off destinations.

15+ Philly Playgrounds with Shade to Keep Kids Cool

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Thu, 08/13/2020 - 10:15am

Franklin Square offers plenty of shade, and a host of other activities, including mini golf and carousel rides. Photo courtesy of Franklin Square

Families are fortunate to have plenty of playgrounds in Philadelphia from which to select. Even better, many of these locations have shade to offer a reprieve from these steamy Philly summer days. We rounded up a few of our favorite shady playgrounds in the city to help you beat the heat.

Looking for other ways to stay cool? Check out these nearby water parks and favorite Philly splash pads for more splashing fun. Find more outdoor play options in our Guide to Philly Parks & Playgrounds.

32 Things to Do with Kids in Chester County

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Fri, 02/14/2020 - 9:00am

Everyone in the family can find fun things to do in Chester County!

Chester County encompasses more than 700 square miles and is home to nearly 500,000 people. So it's no surprise you have quite a few options when it comes to finding fun things to do with your children. So if you live in Chester County or are visiting the area and looking for ways to keep the kiddos entertained, read on for our list of 32 fun activities and places that are perfect for families in this Philly suburb.

For more ideas for quality time family fun, check out our Chester County, PA Guide.

Franklin Institute: Things to Know Before You Go

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Fri, 01/17/2020 - 9:52am

Kids will have hair-raising fun at Franklin Institute. Photo courtesy of Franklin Institute

Philadelphia's known for its culture, history and museums, and the Franklin Institute is no exception. Whether you're planning your first-time trip to this popular Philly destination or returning again to see what's new, check out this article to make the most of your day.

Please Touch Museum: Things to Know Before You Go

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Fri, 10/25/2019 - 4:00am

Choose your favorite animal for a fun time on Please Touch Museum's Carousel Ride

The Please Touch Museum is one of the most celebrated places in the Philadelphia region to take your tots under the age of six, and for good reason. This totally hands-on experience, with nothing off limits, gives kids the chance to let their imaginations run wild. Whether they are playing grown-up in the replica grocery store or make-believe in the Alice in Wonderland maze, kids are sure to have a great time. Here are some insider tips to help parents and children make the most of their visit.

Looking for other inside activities for kids in the Philly area? Check out our directory of venues that offer indoor fun.

Is It a Snow Day for Philadelphia Kids? Here’s How to Find Out

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Tue, 01/15/2019 - 11:30am

Are the kids praying for a snow day in Philadelphia? When you're a kid, school closings for a snow day means snowball fights, snow angels, sleds, and snowmen. Add in some hot chocolate, warm cookies, and a few indoor activities and you've got one memorable day off from school.

But parents just need to know whether or not the school is open or closed due to snow, so they can get on with planning their workday and commute!

So is the school closed today? Will there be early dismissal or a late opening for Philadelphia schools? We as parents have the same questions, so we've compiled a few local resources, so you can stay up to date on weather-related school closures in Philadelphia.

Don't Miss PA Ballet's The Nutcracker this Holiday Season

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Tue, 12/11/2018 - 10:00am

This classic Christmas ballet returns to Philadelphia for another season of holiday pageantry. Since 1968 the Pennsylvania Ballet has been performing The Nutcracker, drawing countless families and performing arts fans. If you have the chance to see this year's show, you won't be disappointed. The sights and sounds of the dazzling dancers, eye-catching costumes, vivid sets, and phenomenal orchestral performance will make you eager to take your seat again after intermission. Having been there, we're here to tell you all about it. Keep reading for more a sneak peek of this ballet performance.